Phabulous phytochemicals

Phytochemicals are kind of a confusing thing. They’re not vitamins. They’re not minerals. You don’t see their benefits touted on cereal boxes. But phytochemicals, which are chemical compounds found in plants, are being credited with some pretty amazing powers.

More research is needed, but studies suggest that phytochemicals may inhibit tumor formation, prevent blood clots and lower cholesterol, among other functions.

Here’s how to make sure you reap any benefits phytochemicals may provide, courtesy Johns Hopkins:

• Every day, aim to eat nine servings of fruits and vegetables every day and six servings of grain products. Different phytochemicals are found in different plants &#151 for example, anthocyanins are found in strawberries and cherries, and allylic sulfides appear in garlic and onions &#151 so eat a wide variety of plant foods, emphasizing dark green vegetables, red and orange produce and whole grains.

• Phytochemicals also show up in herbs and spices, so skip the salt and season your food with garlic, ginger, basil, oregano, parsley, cumin, curry powder, cayenne pepper and cinnamon, among others.

• Eat tofu, soy milk, edamame and other soy products. Johns Hopkins suggests using tofu in stir fries and soups, substituting soy flour for up to one-quarter of the flour in baking recipes and substituting soy butter for peanut butter on bread.